Online Reporter
Gift Moyo [email protected]
Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2026 Top 18 finalist Nomaqhikiza “Noma” Mokoni marked her 32nd birthday last week by launching an international modelling agency, Mokoni Model Management, an initiative aimed at discovering and nurturing aspiring models for international careers.
The Los Angeles-based model announced the launch on her social media platforms, describing it as the fulfilment of a long-held dream inspired by her years of experience in the global fashion industry.
Mokoni who was raised between Gwanda and Bulawayo, rose to prominence during the Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2026 pageant held last month, where she became one of the competition’s standout contestants. Her bold clean-shaven look and confidence won her widespread admiration, making her one of the fan favourites. Since the pageant, she has remained active in advocacy work, championing initiatives that empower young women to recognise their potential and pursue opportunities beyond their circumstances.
Mokoni said the venture represents more than a business, it is her way of giving back to the modelling industry that shaped her career.
“Today isn’t just my birthday. It’s the beginning of something that I’ve dreamt about for a long time. After years of working as an international model, learning from some of the world’s leading agencies and seeing first-hand how careers are built, I’m proud to introduce Mokoni Model Management,” she wrote.
She said the agency will operate as a mother agency, identifying promising talent, providing mentorship and preparing models for placement with leading international agencies.
“A mother agency dedicated to discovering, developing, placing and managing exceptional talent from around the world. This isn’t just a business. It’s a commitment to creating opportunities, opening doors and helping the next generation of models build lasting international careers.
“What better way to begin a new year of my life than by building something that will outlive me,” she wrote.
Through Mokoni Model Management, the Zimbabwean beauty hopes to equip aspiring models with the knowledge, guidance and industry exposure needed to build sustainable careers on the global stage while creating opportunities for African talent to shine internationally.
Beyond mentoring aspiring models, Mokoni is also committed to philanthropy. Last year, she founded Mokoni Children’s Aid, a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving access to education for underprivileged learners by providing essential educational resources. Unlike many charities that focus exclusively on orphaned children,
Mokoni Children’s Aid supports vulnerable learners based on need, recognising that many children from stable, loving families are also disadvantaged by financial hardship.
